Before You Hire an HVAC Contractor, Make Sure They’re Qualified

What does it mean for an HVAC contractor to be qualified? Do they need a certain amount of experience or a specific number of years in business to be qualified? While these factors are worth considering, what you really need to look for when you hire an HVAC contractor is licensing, bonding and insurance. Here’s what each of these qualifications mean.

Licensing

The rules vary in different municipalities, but in general, a technician must complete the following to obtain and renew their license:

Work as an apprentice for a certain number of hours

Show proof of insurance

Complete a written test based on HVAC industry knowledge

Pay a fee

Take continuing education classes

When you hire a licensed HVAC contractor, you increase the chances that the job will go smoothly. Even if something goes wrong, by choosing a licensed contractor you have access to a compensation fund available to right any wrongs.

Bonding

Contractors that purchase a surety bond from a bond provider offer peace of mind to their customers. A bond is a form of insurance that protects you if the contractor completes unsatisfactory work or fails to pay their technicians a proper wage. If either of these situations occurs, the bond ensures you are not held responsible. You can seek recompense for sloppy work by contacting the surety company.

Insurance

Insurance is one of the most important factors when you hire an HVAC contractor. The contractor is required to obtain a license. Look for a contractor who has two types of insurance:

Liability insurance: This removes homeowner liability if the contractor damages your property or a technician is injured on the job.

Workers’ compensation: This covers lost wages and medical bills of an injured worker. It also compensates the worker’s family in the event of death.

Never hire an HVAC contractor unless they have these qualifications. To make sure they do, ask for the contractor’s trade license number and proof of bonding and insurance. At United Air Conditioning, we have all the proper qualifications to get the job done. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.